Cold water inlet fitting on Suburban water heater

[RichardP]

Hi,
I am replacing the original SW10DE water heater in my '08 Montana 3000RK. I know the hot water outlet should have a one-way check valve, but does the cold water inlet need a check valve also, or will a simple half-inch male to half-inch male connection work? Thanks.

[chuckster57]

There isn’t any check valve on the cold inlet.

[RichardP]

Great to hear, thank you!

[ChuckS]

Considering the age of your WH I would also remove the outlet side check valve and replace with a new brass one.. Or at least remove the old one and inspect it for any evidence of junk pieces being lodged inside that valve

[RichardP]

Yes, I will have new connectors for the new heater. At $630 CDN for a new unit, an extra $8 for a connector is no biggie. Thanks.

[RichardP]

Originally Posted by ChuckS

Considering the age of your WH I would also remove the outlet side check valve and replace with a new brass one.. Or at least remove the old one and inspect it for any evidence of junk pieces being lodged inside that valve

Hi Chuck. Am I safe in ordering a generic SW10DE? Will a new one fit my current space, regardless of model number? Thanks!

[ChuckS]

There should be no issue with a generic SW10DE water heater replacement..

HOWEVER - since this is a dual mode LP/120 heater verify if your unit is using a remote relay for the inside switch ( for elec mode WH heating ) ... Most SW10DE WH units will have just the exterior black switch for control of 120 VAC power to the heating element..

But some RVs had added an extra inside control switch for 120 electric heating and there will be a remote relay mounted inside the junction box located up high on the back right side of the water heater..

The replacement unit WILL NOT come with that relay since it is a builder installed option..

If your unit is using a remote relay I would visually inspect the plastic assy for any evidence of overheating, etc and if observed replace the remote relay with a new one as well as the connections to it

images of remote relay and where its mounted

[RichardP]

Hi, yes I just have the outside AC switch. Thanks for your advice.